UK Loses 19,000 Free ATMs Since 2018 as Cash Use Declines
Nearly 19,000 free-to-use cash machines have vanished from high streets across the United Kingdom since January 2018, according to recent data from ATM and cash access network Link. This significant reduction represents a dramatic shift in the nation's banking infrastructure, with profound implications for consumer access to physical currency.
Declining Cash Withdrawals and Usage Patterns
UK adults made an average of 15 trips to cash machines throughout 2025, withdrawing approximately £1,352 per person over the year. This figure marks a 5% decrease compared to the average £1,424 withdrawn during 2024. In total, individuals aged 16 and over conducted 832 million cash withdrawals last year, representing around 9% fewer transactions than in the previous year.
Link's research reveals that ATMs continue to constitute the majority of cash withdrawals throughout the UK, surpassing both cashback services and counter transactions at bank branches, post offices, and banking hubs. Despite this dominance, the network has experienced substantial contraction.
Current ATM Landscape and Digital Transition
By the conclusion of 2025, the UK had 5% fewer cash machines than at the end of 2024. Of the remaining units, 33,710 offer free access while 8,693 impose usage fees. This reduction occurs against a backdrop of changing payment behaviours, with digital alternatives gaining popularity.
Recent Link research indicates that while just under half of adults (48%) carry a physical purse or wallet daily, 51% reported using cash within the previous week. Graham Mott, director of strategy at Link, commented: "Digital payments are increasingly popular and our data shows that millions are comfortable and happy to leave their home relying on their digital wallet on their smartwatch or smartphone."
Industry Perspectives on Cash Access
Mott emphasised the ongoing importance of cash accessibility, stating: "Even though usage is falling in every part of the UK, cash remains resilient, and essential to millions of people. Link's job is to ensure that we continue to have excellent access to cash on every high street across the UK." The organisation maintains a financial inclusion programme designed to guarantee universal access to free cash facilities.
Ron Delnevo, Chair and Spokesperson of the Payment Choice Alliance, expressed stronger concerns about the ATM reduction: "19 thousand free-to-use ATMs lost in the UK since 1 January 2018. That means around SEVEN ATMS have been ripped out EVERY SINGLE DAY. The British public have been robbed of genuinely convenient 24/7 cash access - because ATMs are the only way such access can be provided."
Delnevo added with evident frustration: "It makes my blood boil - especially since I predicted this would happen." These contrasting perspectives highlight the tension between evolving payment technologies and maintaining essential financial services for all segments of society.
